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May 2026 Newsletter

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TALK OF THE TOWN

THE PLACE YOU BELONG THE SPACE YOU CAN THRIVE

Keep up with all things FIBC via our monthly Talk of the Town Newsletter! Want to send the newsletter to someone? Email us at info@fibcaz org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS PRAYER & BIBLE STUDY PRAYER & BIBLE STUDY

First Sunday - The Lord’s Supper

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Noon Day Prayer & Bible Study

Convergence Evening Bible Study

In Full Bloom Mother’s Day Tea

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Family Prayer Saturday

Second Sunday - Mother’s Day

Time to Remember

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Noon Day Prayer & Bible Study

Convergence Evening Bible Study

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Third Sunday - Senior Pastor

Emeritus Day

R.N. Nesby Scholarship Convocation

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Noon Day Prayer & Bible Study

Convergence Evening Bible Study

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Family Prayer Saturday

New Member Class

Fourth Sunday

Choir & Praise Team Rehearsal

Noon Day Prayer & Bible Study

Convergence Evening Bible Study

D.R.E.A,M.

Fifth

Birthdays

Intercessory Prayer

Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturday (2nd & 4th) In-Person & Online

We invite you to unite with us in prayer on Sundays before worship services, Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. and on the second and fourth Saturdays at 8 a.m.

Noon Bible Study & Prayer Wednesdays at 11:30 a m In-Person & Online

Each Wednesday you're invited to grab your lunch and Bible and join us for prayer and Bible Study in the middle of the day in The Hope Center Chapel.

WORSHIP

Convergence Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Streaming on YouTube

Deepen your understanding of scripture and align your daily walk with Biblical principles through this engaging and interactive study that’s streamed live via YouTube

SERVICE REMINDERS WORSHIP SERVICE REMINDERS

Baptism is held every FOURTH SUNDAY, 8 a.m. class, 9 a.m. baptism, contact a Deacons Ministry member if you are interested in getting baptism Prayer requests should be sent to Pastor Jordan Hampton in the office

Meetings with Pastor Ty should be scheduled through Lucy Reyes, Executive Assistant to the Senior Pastor

REMINDERS FROM THE ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF REMINDERS FROM THE ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

2026 calendar dates. All ministries should send calendar dates, including monthly meetings, to the appropriate Staff Pastor for approval BEFORE submitting a Ministry Request Form Update your membership record. Giving statements will be made available early next year and members are responsible for updating contact information, including email and U S mailing addresses to ensure proper delivery

Join the DREAM TEAM!

We're building a DREAM TEAM of engaged volunteers and you ca the excitement! Please take a moment to let us know where you to serve and we'll get you connected by clicking this link.

We want to see every member serving in ministry and that starts you joining the DREAM TEAM today

JOIN THE CHOIR!

We are excited for the return of our choir and want to invite you to come make a joyful noise.

Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. in the sanctuary and the choir ministers twice a month

If you have any questions contact Bro Christian Branham or call the office

D.R.E.A.M. ZONE SUNDAY IS COMING!

Every fifth Sunday we celebrate our young people in worship and we invite you and your entire family to join us on D.R.E.A.M. Zone Sunday, May 31.

With high praise, worship and special elements for our children and youth, there is something for your entire family in worship

We will also have a special community service project on Saturday, May 30, so stay tuned for more information.

MONTHLY MEN’S MINISTRY MEETING

Looking to connect with like-minded men? Looking to find a community of believers, working in ministry? Consider connected with the FIBC Men’s Ministry.

Meetings are held on the second TUESDAY of each month at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom.

Meeting ID: 921 286 4854 Passcode: 1141fibc

MONTHLY WOMEN’S MINISTRY MEETIN

The FIBC Women’s Ministry wants to meet every woman where they are, no matter yo age or stage and invites you to come out f their monthly ministry meeting.

The gathering is held on the third SATURD of each month at 11 a.m., sometimes in person and sometimes via Zoom You c check the church calendar for meeting details.

W MEMBER CLASS

e next opportunity for you to learn more out FIBC, who we are, what we believe d why we believe it, is coming up. The xt Disciple U New Member Class will take ce on Saturday, May 23.

ou ’ re interested in attending, please ntact Rev. Jordan Hampton or call the ce.

MOTHER’S DAY TEA

In Full Bloom is a curated Moth experience celebrating women season, honoring the beauty of resilience, nurturing, and beco place on Saturday, May 9.

Your ticket includes a Dessert b Guided Tea Tasting, Bloom Bar Commemorative Gift!

Get tickets and details here.

mothers and mother-figures in our lives on Mother’s Day Sunday, May 10.

In addition to a great worship experience, we will have a gift for all the ladies, courtesy of the FIBC Men’s Ministry.

Nothing would make mom happier than you joining her in worship on Mother’s Day Sunday, May 10

TIME TO REMEMBER

The FIBC H.E.L.P.S. Ministry will hold a Time to Remember on Mother's Da Sunday, May 10 at 8 a.m. This is an opportunity to honor the life of a love one no longer with us. You are welcom to light a candle, say a prayer, tell a st or just sit quietly and listen. Time To Remember is held at 8 a m on-camp and via Zoom

Meeting ID: 453 287 8793

Passcode: 1141

H i t t i n g t h e H i g h l i g h t s H i t t i n g t h e H i g h l i g h t s

WeinviteyoutojoinwithChristiansaroundtheworldforNationalDayofPrayer,an annualobservancedesignatedbytheU.S.Congress,whenweaskpeopleto"turnto Godinprayerandmeditation."TheFIBCPrayerMinistrywillholdaspecialtimeof prayeronThursday,May7at12p.m.viaZoom.ClickheretoRSVP

APrayerfromtheFIBCPrayerMinistrybySis.LindaPaxton-Easter FatherGodAlmighty,wecomebeforeYouonthisNationalDayofPrayerwith humblehearts,liftingupYourholyname.Lord,Yourwordin1Chronicles16:24 remindsusto“declareamongthenations,Yourmarvelousworksamongall people.”Sotoday,weanswerthatcal,seekingtoglorifyYouineverythingthatwe doGlorifyingYounotonlywithourlipsbutmostofallwithourlives

Lord,wepraiseYouastheCreatorofallgenerationsYouhavebeenfaithfultousin thepast,YouarefaithfulinourpresentandwebelieveYouwillbefaithfulinour futureForYouarefaithfulAndforthatwegiveYouallhonor,allpraiseandallthe glory.ForYourfaithfulnessreachesfromgenerationtogeneration.

Today,onthisNationalDayofPrayer,weliftupeverygenerationbeforeYouChildren fullofwonder,youthsearchingforpurpose,adultscarryingresponsibility,andthe eldersrichwithwisdomLord,willYoubindFIBCtogetherasonebodywithmany members,rootedintruth,committedtoseekingYouaboveallelseWillYouawaken inusapassiontoglorifyYouamongallnationsLetYourlightshinethroughusinour homes,ourchurches,ourcommunities,andthenationTeachustoseekYouinevery generation-whenweareyoungandstrong,whenweareoldandfeeble,whenwe rejoiceandwhenwestruggle.MayeverygenerationknowYou,loveYouandwalk faithfullywithYou.

Lord,weoftenpledgeallegiancetoournationbutonlyafterwehavepledged allegiancetoYou,theoneandonlytrueandlivingGod-theOnewhoformedthe mountains,createdthewind,revealedYourthoughtstoman,Hewhoturnsdawnto darkness,andtreadsthehighplacesoftheearth-theLordGodAlmightyisYour name

Lord,helpFIBCbeabeaconofhope,truthandloveinthecommunity,inourcityand thenationHelpustobeapeoplewhodeclareYourgloryamongthenationsthroughourwords,ourservice,andourwitnessMayeverygenerationriseuptoseek You,tohonorYou,andtoproclaimthatYoualoneareGodandworthyofallour praises

InJesusnameweprayAmen

SENIOR PASTOR EMERITUS DAY

We are excited celebrate the preaching legacy of our Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. this May on Senior Pastor Emeritus Day, Sunday, May 17.

Join us for this annual Sunday when we welcome Dr. Stewart back to the pulpit for a special preaching experience as part of his preaching anniversary. There will also be a celebratory reception following service

NESBY CONVOCATION

We will celebrate the graduating class of 2026 and our scholarship recipients this May as part of our annual R N Nesby & Warren H Stewart, Sr Scholarship Ministry Convocation program, taking place on Sunday, May 17.

Our scholarship ministry helps fund and fuel the educational pursuits of members and non-members and we invite you to join this year ’ s celebration

In addition to the scholarships offered by our ministry, we also highlight and share links to other community scholarships and fellowship opportunities for students. You can find more information here.

Save these Dates Save these Dates

GET READY FOR AN ENGAGING JUNE GET READY FOR AN ENGAGING JUNE

FATHER’S DAY SUNDAY

Men’s Fellowship Breakfast

The FIBC Men's Ministry invites all men and boys to join them for the next Fellowship Breakfast on Saturday, June 6 at 9 a.m. in the Hope Center Gym. This is a relaxed gathering where men of all ages can gather over a shared meal, build friendships and encourage each other in faith and life

The June Fellowship Breakfast will be catered by Honey Bear's BBQ. Tickets are $30 per person and can be purchased by clicking here. The deadline to register is Wednesday, June 3, 2026

We are excited to celebrate all the fathers and father-figures in our lives on Father’s Day Sunday, June 14.

In addition to a great worship experience, we will have a gift for all the dads, courtesy of the FIBC Women’s Ministry.

The FIBC H.E.L.P.S. Ministry will hold a Time to Remember on Father's Day Sunday, June 14 at 8 a.m.

This is an opportunity to honor the life of a loved one no longer with us. You are welcome to light a candle, say a prayer, tell a story, or just sit quietly and listen. Time To Remember is held at 8 a.m. on-campus and via Zoom.

Focus FIBCO in

Family Services, Inc. focuses on five primary program areas:

Quality Food by providing free meal options to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

Clothing distribution by providing clothing to those in need.

Affordable housing by offering safe and affordable housing to low-income individuals through a partnership with HUD African Immigrant and Refugee Support by providing resources and support to African immigrants and refugees.

Health and Healthcare by addressing healthcare disparities and improving access to care.

From the Executive Director From the Executive Director

Akilah Stewart Akilah Stewart

I am pleased to report that FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is continuing to I am pleased to report that FIBCO Family Services, Inc is continuing to impact lives in the greater Phoenix area. impact lives in the greater Phoenix area.

A big THANK YOU to all our FIBCO volunteers

A big THANK YOU to all our FIBCO volunteers.

Thank you to everyone who has donated items to our various Thank you to everyone who has donated items to our various campaigns and efforts. We accept donations at any time. campaigns and efforts. We accept donations at any time.

Y Your continued support of FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is making a our continued support of FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is making a difference in the Greater Phoenix area. difference in the Greater Phoenix area.

FIBCO 40th Anniversary Jubilee Brunch! October 24th,

FIBCO 40th Anniversary Jubilee Brunch! October 24th, 2026, 2026, at the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural at the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center. More details to come! Center. More details to come!

FIBCO Family Services, Inc. hosted the Farm Express mobile

FIBCO Family Services, Inc. hosted the Farm Express mobile retail produce market on Wednesday, April 29, on-site! They retail produce market on Wednesday, April 29, on-site! They offered $20 vouchers to approximately 15 people and offered $20 vouchers to approximately 15 people and provided additional opportunities for the community to access provided additional opportunities for the community to access affordable fresh fruits and vegetables. affordable fresh fruits and vegetables.

FIBCO Family Services, Inc. and University of Arizona are FIBCO Family Services, Inc. and University of Arizona are collaborating to teach healthy eating to our classes and pantry collaborating to teach healthy eating to our classes and pantry volunteers. Our Mini-Market pantry will soon be Gold Star volunteers. Our Mini-Market pantry will soon be Gold Star certified. certified.

(602) 258-1998 fibcoadmin@gmail.com

Akilah Stewart Akilah Stewart

A big THANK You to all of our FIBCO Volunteers. In March 2026, A big You to all of our FIBCO Volunteers. In March 2026, they contributed 443 volunteer hours! We couldn’t do it without they contributed 443 volunteer hours! We couldn’t do it without you! you!

FIBCO Family Services served a total of 3,876 individuals through

FIBCO Family Services served a total of 3,876 individuals through food and clothing distributions in March 2026. food and clothing distributions in March 2026.

DONATION DRIVE ALERT!

DONATION DRIVE ALERT!

Plastic bags needed! Plastic bags needed!

Please donate any plastic shopping bags you may have

Please donate any plastic shopping bags you may have and are wanting to get rid of. These plastic bags ar and are wanting to get rid of. These plastic bags are e used to support our clothing closet and our lunch bag used to support our clothing closet and our lunch bag program. program.

Drop off to FIBCO on Tuesdays, Wednesday, and Drop off to FIBCO on Tuesdays, Wednesday, and Fridays from 8am- 1pm to a volunteer or ask for Akilah Fridays from 8am- 1pm to a volunteer or ask for Akilah Stewart! Stewart!

MINISTER OF PASTORAL COUNSELING

Dear FIBC and Church Community,

Our collective “ sensory system” has again been shaken and upended by a plethora of recent violent acts within family units throughout the country Domestic violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) have led the way during the past several weeks in America Along with this violence has been gun violence and suicide and most notably, many of these recent tragic occurrences, have been among African-American families.

Sunday, April 19, Shreveport, LA: Seven children died by gun violence at the hands of their own father who also killed the children’s cousin. He shot two mothers of these victims.

Thursday, April 16, Annadale, VA: A politician and father murdered his wife, a dentist, and subsequently turned the gun on himself. Leaving two teen kids to make sense of the senseless.

Easter Sunday, April 5, Statesville, North Carolina: Pastor Tammy McCollum was shot and killed by her husband of thirty years She preached a sermon on Easter Sunday morning that would ultimately be her last Wednesday, April 1, Coral Springs, FL: A husband shot and killed his wife of three years She was the Vice-Mayor of her city

Each of these deaths were children and adults of African-American heritage

Each of the murderers were also African-American We can’t help but wonder what is going on in our land, in our Black communities and in our church communities

There is so much more to read and learn about each of those who have passed as they are laid to rest, but my message to us today is “don’t lose hope” (Romans 15:4, Psalm 146:5-6) even when answers seem so distant in attempting to understand these tragedies and the resulting traumas. When understanding seems so elusive, continue to put your hope, your cares, your questions in the Hands of God. (1st Peter 5:7).

As we collectively mourn these losses and undoubtedly so many more, listed below are recommendations and reminders (not all-inclusive):

If you or someone you know, is in crisis, do not hesitate to make a call: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text)

1-800-799-7233 National Domestic Violence Hotline You may also text the word “START” to 88788

Text HOME to 741741 Volunteer Crisis Counselors

1-888-664-6652 Violence Prevention Services

911 ALL Emergencies

Domestic Violence

If you need immediate shelter or other assistance related to domestic or IPV violence contact:

New Leaf 480-890-3039 Chrysalis 602-944-4999

Sexual Violence Help Line: 480-733-3028

The Office of Pastoral Counseling offers appointments each Wednesday at FIBC from 10: am – 5:00 pm Please email to schedule an appointment for individual, marital, family and other counseling support cwatson@fibcaz org

Reminders:

Abusive relationships have brutal and far too often, deadly consequences Help is available, however, as much as we try, we cannot force a person to leave such relationships. Our encouragement must be active, but not coercive. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to children who may be in danger. Find the strength and support to save a child. They may very well be in your own family. When someone tells you or alerts you that they are depressed and it is becoming worse, or the person is becoming increasingly angry with someone, listen with love, but with an expectation to secure help for that person, and possibly safety for yourself. If you are verbally or physically threatened or someone in your household or someone you know, do not hesitate to seek safety.

When a family member or other person makes statements related to “finality”, or “hopelessness”, or sharing that they feel “helpless” to change a situation, it may very well be a blessed time for intervention (1st Peter 5:8)

Stay Calm: Crisis situations can be stressful Take deep breaths, think clearly Offer support to others around you

Communicate: Keep in touch with family, friends, and colleagues Let them know that you are “walking” with them and alongside them as they traverse grief, sorrow, family discord or painful transitions Remind others that God is close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

Pray: For families, our nation, our church families, our children and so many more). Let’s pray for all of the families in these most recent occurrences due to domestic violence. Grieve: It’s ok to grieve. To mourn. However, as believers, we do not grieve as if there is no hope. (1st Thessalonians 4:13-18).

Let’s stay steadfast in trials. In Him, we find our peace. (Romans 5:3-5; John 16:33).

Protect Yourself: Safeguard your health. Seek support for your well-being and mental health. There is no shame in needing help. (3 John 2). It’s ok to NOT be ok.

May our faith continue in our God. Remember, faith is not blind or unknowing; faith does not deny difficulties, but rather it declares the power of God in our difficulties.

Oh, love the LORD, all you, His saints! For the LORD preserves the faithful, And fully repays the proud person. Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:23-24

Additional Resources

Mental Health Assistance, Crisis Lifeline and Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call 9-8-8 Chat with someone at 988lifeline.org

Support for Veterans Veteranscrisisline.net/Chat Text 838255

1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-7283

Child Abuse and Other Support for Children

ChildHelp org

1-800-422-4453

National Suicide Hotline

1-800-273-8255 602-222-9444

“Warm Line”- Someone to Listen to You 602-347-1100

Teen and Young Adult Mental Health Support

602-245-8336 or 1-800-248-8336

Legal Assistance

AZLawHelp org CLSAZ.org (Community Legal Services)

Health and Human Services and other Social Assistance Programs Call 211

Community Events Community Events

UPCOMING MINISTRY & OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES

UPCOMING MINISTRY & OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES

Don’t miss your opportunity to join the festivities taking place this June as part of Juneteenth, Freedom Day!

There are programs planned across the greater phoenix area for you to join!

Community Events Community Events

MINISTRY & OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES

UPCOMING MINISTRY & OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES

Buc-ee's is hosting a mass hiring event from May 5 through May 7, 2026, at Desert Diamond Arena, with hiring activities taking place daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p m The event will focus on filling a variety of full-time positions, including roles in cashiering, deli and food service, grocery, gift merchandise, and janitorial and maintenance. Candidates selected by invitation will have the opportunity to interview for roles that offer weekly pay, comprehensive benefits such as medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) with company match, as well as generous paid time off This large-scale hiring effort also highlights opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement within the company.

The Phoenix Job Fair on May 28, 2026, hosted by Best Hire Career Fairs, will take place from 11:00 a m to 2:00 p m at the DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix North, offering job seekers a valuable opportunity to connect directly with top hiring companies from across the region This free, in-person event brings together employers from a wide range of industries including healthcare, technology, finance, retail, and more allowing candidates to meet face-to-face with hiring managers, make strong first impressions, and potentially interview on the spot. Open to individuals at all career stages, the event is designed for those looking to start fresh or advance their careers, with attendees encouraged to arrive early, come prepared, and take full advantage of the networking and immediate hiring opportunities available. Here is all the info

The 27th Annual Phoenix Career Fair, hosted by Diversity Career Group, is set to take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix North. This free, in-person hiring event gives job seekers the opportunity to meet face-to-face and interview with a wide range of local and nationally recognized employers across industries such as sales, healthcare, customer service, technology, finance, and more. Open to candidates of all experience levels, the event features opportunities ranging from entry-level roles to management positions, with many employers offering competitive benefits packages and career advancement potential Attendees are encouraged to come prepared to interview on the spot and connect directly with hiring managers for immediate opportunities.

Have an upcoming community event you want to share? Email the flyer (JPEG & PNG only) and information to tlewis@fibcaz.org.

Stay in t he Know Stay in t he Know

VOLUNTEER | SERVE | GIVE | SHARE VOLUNTEER | SERVE | GIVE | SHARE

ers Needed

stries are continuing to make the transition ife on the FIBC campus and that means we ore volunteer support. We want you to find e in ministry and serve, and trust and believe, plenty of room for you to use your gifts and

need of volunteers for ministries like the Security (Ministry of Protection), Multi-Media dent Ministries But there are other places you e Please take the next step by calling the ffice or emailing to let us know you're ready to ministry

Open Staff Positions

As our ministries return to campus, we're also hiring some much needed staff positions. We recently reorganized our staff positions and we are accepting applications for the following positions:

Various Family Life (Student Ministries) positions

Visit our website for information on how to apply

#didyouknow FIBC has a YouTube Channel? Did you know you can watch our services and Bible Studies live from your smart device, including a tv, on YouTube? Don't forget, we’ve moved all our streaming to YouTube. You can enjoy worship services, bible studies and other special events and programs, streamed direct to a television or any smart device.

Stay in t he Know Stay in t he Know

Ways to Give

Whether worshiping in person or online, you have the opportunity to give generously through tithes and offering. Your generous support of FIBC goes a long way in helping us fulfill our mission, vision and purpose.

Ways to Give:

U.S. Mail or In-Person (1141 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85034)

CashAPP using the tag $FIBCAZ Online at fibcaz.org and click on "Give"

Legacy Giving

As part of your giving, consider making a contribution to the FIBC Legacy Endowment. Established to cultivate life-long support of our mission and ministries, this is a key component of our stewardship ministry and vital in ensuring the perpetuity of FIBC.

There are several ways you can contribute to the endowment. For more information visit our website or call the church office.

er Contact Information Update

information up to date with the office? Do we have your mailing address, email and telephone number? As we e to enter a time of transition, we need you to verify update your contact information

bcaz org for information on how you can affirm your ership or call the office

TALK OF THE TOWN

THE PLACE YOU BELONG THE SPACE YOU CAN THRIVE

First Institutional Baptist Church, 1141 East Jefferson Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034

Telephone 602-258-1998 Fax: 602-256-2957

Website: www fibcaz org Email: info@fibcaz org

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday-Friday 8:00 a m -4:00 p m

FIBCO FAMILY SERVICES, INC ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10:30 a m -12:30 p m

WORSHIP AND BIBLE STUDY TIMES: Sunday Worship: 9 a.m.

Children & Youth Worship: 9 a.m.

Sunday Bible Studies: 8 a.m.

African Worship Service: 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday Pre-Noonday Prayer and Bible Study: 11:30 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. (noon)

Senior Pastor -Dr Robert “Ty” Jones Ext 2210

Executive Director of Operations - Bro Deangelo D Hall Ext 2205 | dhall@fibcaz org

Pastor of Family Life - The Rev Thomas Claiborn, IV Ext 2206 | tclaiborn@fibcaz org

Pastor of Congregational Care and Outreach - The Rev Jordan Hampton Ext 2228 | jhampton@fibcaz org

Creative Director of Worship and Arts - Bro Christian Branham cbranham@fibcaz org

Creative Director of Virtual and Multi-Media - Bro Maarcus Hall Ext 2208 | mhall@fibcaz org

Minister of Pastoral Counseling - Dr Carolyn Watson Ext 2227 | cwatson@fibcaz org

FIBCO Family Services, Inc. Executive Director - Akilah Stewart akilah stewart@fibco org

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May 2026 Newsletter by FIBC Phoenix - Issuu